Combined effect of Spirulina and ferrous fumarate on growth parameters, pigmentation, digestive enzyme activity, antioxidant enzyme activity and fatty acids composition of Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Spirulina and ferrous fumarate supplementations into diets on growth parameters, pigmentation, digestive enzyme activity, antioxidant enzyme activity and fatty acids composition of Yellow River carp. Three experimental groups included control, Spirulina (diet 1), mixture of Spirulina and ferrous fumarate treatments (diet 2) in 3 replications in 9 aquariums. Fifteen fish in each aquarium were fed twice a day for six weeks. Compared to the control group, the Yellow River carp fed with the Spirulina and ferrous fumarate had a higher specific growth rate (P < 0.05). The total carotenoids content in Yellow River carp skin and scale was significantly higher for fish fed diet with Spirulina and ferrous fumarate relative to all other diets (P < 0.05). The color parameters of L *, a *, b*, Hue (Hab°) and Chroma (ch*) were calculated for all treatments. Obtain findings revealed that the Spirulina and ferrous fumarate treatment could provide the desired skin color exactly of Yellow River carp. The Spirulina and ferrous fumarate supplementation significantly elevated intestinal digestive capacity by increasing amylase, lipase, and trypsin enzyme activities (P < 0.05). The results obtained indicated that Spirulina and ferrous fumarate supplementation could improve intestinal health through enhancing intestinal digestive enzyme activity and reducing tissue peroxidation. In addition, the Spirulina and ferrous fumarate has a satisfactory nutritional value of improving the fatty acid profile. Therefore, the use of Spirulina and ferrous fumarate as feed additive could be practiced in the aquaculture species.